OREANDA-NEWS. June 14, 2011. Tata Power, India’s largest integrated private power utility, in line with its philosophy of improving the quality of life of its communities, has been organising various health awareness programmes across the country. A recent programme with special emphasis on Aids awareness was organised for communities in Mundali, Naraj and Marthapur villages in Orissa and was initiated in association with the NGO, Movement for Urbanisation.

The motto of this programme was to make the village communities aware of the cause, symptoms and prevention of Aids. Through a mass communication programme that included road shows, rallies, candlelight vigils, art shows, marches, direct communication with the villagers, etc, hundreds of activists took part to spread Aids awareness in the area.

One of the major activities under this programme was a motorcycle rally organised on World Aids Day in village Arilo with the slogan for the rally being, “Avoiding Aids is as easy as ABC”.

Additionally, a skit specially designed under the programme, was also performed in Mundali area to create awareness among villagers on the causes and symptoms of swine flu.

“India has the world's third-largest population suffering from HIV/Aids. No doubt efforts have been taken by government as well as various NGOs but a large population is still not aware of the cause and prevention of this disease especially in the rural areas where talking about it is a stigma,” said Purushottam Thakur, general manager, projects, Tata Power.

Adding further, Mr Thakur said, “We would like to help in eradicating this menace and the only way to do so is through education and hence this awareness drive.”

Programmes have also been conducted to make children aware of good health practices and the importance of good health in life. Residents were advised and trained to keep their houses and surroundings clean and hygienic and thus contribute towards the wellbeing of the whole community.